Hasselt University

What you'll study

This master's provides a balance of theoretical foundations, quantitative methods and applied project work. Core topics include transport modelling and simulation, traffic flow theory, transport economics and policy, logistics and freight transport, urban mobility and public transport planning, road safety and human factors, and intelligent transport systems (ITS).

• Modelling & quantitative methods: discrete choice models, demand forecasting, microsimulation, network assignment and optimisation.
• Planning & policy: land-use and transport interactions, sustainable mobility strategies, evaluation of infrastructure and policy measures.
• Operations & logistics: freight and supply chain management, intermodal transport and operational planning.
• Safety & human factors: road safety analysis, vulnerability and behavioural aspects of road users.
• Intelligent transport systems & data analytics: sensor and ITS technologies, transport data collection, GIS applications, machine learning for mobility data.
• Research project / master's thesis: an extended research or applied project supervised by academic staff, often in collaboration with industry or public authorities.

The programme typically offers optional seminars and elective modules that allow you to deepen technical skills (e.g. programming, big data in transport) or take an interdisciplinary perspective (e.g. environmental assessment, mobility governance). Practical work includes lab sessions, case studies and field data collection.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering, civil engineering, transport studies, geography, economics, computer science or another closely related discipline. Strong quantitative skills and familiarity with statistics, mathematics and basic programming are advantageous.

• Official transcripts and proof of degree.
• A motivation letter outlining your interest in transport sciences and your intended focus.
• A curriculum vitae highlighting relevant academic and practical experience.
• References or letters of recommendation are often requested.
• If your previous education was not in English, you will normally need to demonstrate proficiency in English through an accepted language test or equivalent proof.

Specific entry rules (such as bridging courses for applicants with non-technical backgrounds) are set by the university and may be discussed with the programme coordinator during application assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to roles across public authorities, private industry and research organisations. Typical careers include:

• Transport planner or policy advisor in municipal, regional or national government bodies.
• Traffic engineer or operations specialist with infrastructure agencies and road authorities.
• Mobility consultant in engineering and planning consultancies, focusing on sustainable transport and ITS solutions.
• Logistics and freight planner for shipping, distribution and supply-chain companies.
• Data analyst, modeller or GIS specialist working with mobility datasets and simulation tools.
• Academic or applied researcher in universities, research institutes or innovation centres.

Graduates are well placed for positions that require both technical competence and the ability to work across disciplines — for example in projects implementing low-emission zones, public transport reforms, smart mobility pilots or large infrastructure evaluations.

Why study at Hasselt University

Hasselt University is known for its focused, research-driven approach and a collaborative campus culture. The programme benefits from close links with the university's transport research groups, offering students access to experienced researchers and applied projects.

• Interdisciplinary research environment: students can work alongside experts in transport modelling, safety research and smart mobility technologies.
• Strong regional and industry connections: the university maintains partnerships with public authorities, transport operators and private firms, creating opportunities for internships and applied thesis projects.
• Hands-on learning: emphasis on real-world case studies, data-driven projects and practical modelling tools prepares graduates for professional practice.
• Supportive student experience: a relatively small campus community enables close supervision, tailored guidance and engagement with research groups.

These elements make Hasselt University a suitable choice for students seeking an applied, research-informed education in transportation sciences with strong links to industry and public-sector practice.